The Soca Monarch Competition is the ultimate showdown of energy, melody, and performance, where Saint Lucia’s top soca artists go head-to-head for the prestigious Groovy and Power Soca Monarch titles. As one of the most electrifying events of Lucian Carnival, this competition ignites the stage with pulsating beats, infectious melodies, and show-stopping performances.

The competition is divided into two categories, Groovy, and Power Soca.

Groovy Soca is slower, melodic, and smooth, and must run at a tempo not exceeding 130 beats per minute (BPM). These songs are all about rhythm and singalong hooks that make you sway and feel the music deep in your soul.

Power Soca on the other hand, is high-energy, fast-paced, and designed to get your heart racing. These songs run at a tempo faster than 130 beats per minute (BPM).  Power Soca songs are pure adrenaline, meant to make the crowd jump, wave, and lose themselves in the frenzy of Carnival.

Similar to Calypso, you can take in all the local Soca songs at the Soca tents leading up to the Competition.

The competition begins with a listening audition and quarterfinals, held in a closed setting where artists compete for a spot in the next round, in front of a panel of judges. 20 songs in each category are selected to compete at the Semifinals stage. Following that, the nine best songs in each category go up against the reigning monarch in an epic battle for the crown. Beyond the competition, Soca Monarch is a celebration of music, movement, and Carnival spirit. If you love the thrill of Caribbean music, the energy of Carnival, and the excitement of live performances, the Soca Monarch Competition is an event you don’t want to miss!